On March 21, 2025, Prime Minister Ishibashi addressed the House of Councillors Budget Committee, revealing his concerns about the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)'s decision to endorse former legislator Mio Sugita for the upcoming proportional representation list in the next House of Councillors election. Ishibashi candidly stated that he holds a "strong sense of discomfort" regarding Sugita's past discriminatory remarks, including statements asserting that gender equality is a "preposterous idea against morality" and that "women can easily lie." He emphasized the importance of candidates taking responsibility for their words and actions.
At the committee, Yuichiro Tamao, a member of the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP), raised questions about Sugita's endorsement, stating that there is significant public criticism regarding her comments. He asked Ishibashi for clarification about the decision-making process behind endorsing such a controversial figure. The Prime Minister responded, "It was decided based on the person's application and after deliberation by the party's Election Strategy Committee. Ultimately, it is my judgment."
Prime Minister Ishibashi reiterated his stance on the unacceptable nature of Sugita's past statements. In his response, he mentioned, “I have a strong sense of discomfort with statements like 'Gender equality is a preposterous idea against morality' and 'Women can easily lie,' and our party is not a party that allows such unfair discrimination.” His comments came in light of Sugita being recognized by the Ministry of Justice as a human rights violator for her previous remarks against ethnic minorities such as the Ainu people and Korean residents in Japan.
This situation has drawn attention not only to Sugita's past remarks but also to the broader issues of discrimination within the political landscape. Tamao pressed on, stating, “What you are saying is different from what you are doing,” highlighting the apparent contradiction between the party's principles and its endorsement of Sugita.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the criticism, affirming, "The Liberal Democratic Party does not allow any unfair discrimination. I cannot condone it. I want her remarks as a candidate to be responsible for her words and actions and to be careful." This emphasis on accountability underscores the delicate balance Ishibashi is trying to maintain within his party as they prepare for the elections.
Sugita's record includes several controversial statements made in previous forums, including a reported claim that "Gender equality can never be achieved; it is an immoral delusion." This continuous scrutiny over her views raises questions about the future of the LDP as they navigate public sentiment ahead of the elections.
The remarks made during the committee hearing reflect ongoing tensions within the political sphere in Japan today, particularly concerning women's rights and minority representation. As the summer elections approach, this discourse may significantly impact the LDP's support among voters who are increasingly mindful of these issues.
Amid this evolving political backdrop, Ishibashi's challenge lies in reassuring his constituents that the LDP stands firm against discrimination while managing its party dynamics. His leadership will be tested in the days to come as questions loom over the effectiveness of their endorsement decisions and the implications for their political integrity.
